Iowa patrol says 2 killed in crash during police chase

MASON CITY, Ia. — Authorities say a police chase has led to a crash near downtown Mason City that killed two people.

Officials report the crash happened just before 1 p.m. Thursday.

The Iowa State Patrol says the incident began as a traffic stop that led to the short chase. Patrol Sgt. Dana Knutson says the vehicle lost control, hit a tree and rolled, killing both occupants.

The State Patrol identified the driver as Jerrick Rinnels, 29, and his passenger as Jessica Herker, 28. Both lived in Mason City.

A Cerro Gordo deputy initiated the traffic stop because Rinnels had an outstanding warrant and no drivers license, said Iowa State Trooper Alex Dinkla. The pursuit went on for two blocks and then law enforcement called off the chase.

Emergency responders were then called to the crash moments later, Dinkla said.